Under what condition does Cream require franchisees to use their designated architects as project managers?
Cream Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
cludes construction project management services. You are required to use our designated architects as your project manager if you cannot demonstrate past experience in managing the construction process of a retail store front.
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- Leasehold Improvements. The cost of leasehold improvements will vary depending on many factors, including: (i) the size and configuration of the Premises; (ii) pre-construction costs (including demolition of existing walls and removal of existing improvements and fixtures);
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 17–22)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cream's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to use Cream's designated architects as their project manager if they cannot demonstrate past experience in managing the construction process of a retail storefront. Cream currently requires that franchisees use their designated architect. To aid in the design and construction of the Cream shop, Cream has created prototype designs that their architect and the franchisee's general contractor will use.
This requirement ensures that all Cream locations adhere to the brand's standards and design specifications. For franchisees without prior construction management experience, using Cream's designated architects helps mitigate the risk of costly errors or delays during the build-out phase. This also helps maintain consistency across all Cream franchise locations, which is important for brand recognition and customer experience.
While using Cream's designated architect might add to the initial investment, it can be beneficial for franchisees lacking relevant experience. The FDD also mentions that the high end of Cream's initial investment estimate includes construction project management services, indicating that this cost is already factored into the higher range of the estimated initial investment. Franchisees should discuss this requirement and associated costs with Cream to fully understand the financial implications and ensure they are prepared for the build-out process.